Disabled Living

Tag: Manchester

  • Best Accessible Days Out in Greater Manchester

    Best Accessible Days Out in Greater Manchester

    This is a guest blog for Disabled Living, written by Patricia McCartney.

    Are you looking to find accessible days out for you and your family? Supportability have got you covered! Whether you’re looking to keep the kids busy over the summer holidays or just want to make the most of the weekend. 

    This blog post starts with detailing some of the best accessible days in Greater Manchester. Further into the blog post there is information going to look some accessible days out across the rest of the UK.

    Best Accessible Days Out in Manchester

    iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Manchester

    If you’re looking for an adrenaline pumping activity try visiting iFLY Manchester. The staff are experienced in dealing with disabled people using their facilities, and encourage visitors with physical disabilities to try indoor skydiving.

    The best idea is to contact the centre in advance so they are aware you are coming so they can make sure to allocate the time and attention needed. With this in mind if you can book on weekdays when the centre is less busy, we would recommend doing so.

    In terms of parking you have three Blue Badge Spaces in the car park that are near the entrance. The building itself is fully accessible, all levels are connected with good size lifts, with three accessible toilets available.

    When it comes to the activity itself one carer is allowed to enter the flying zone free of charge. However, in the flight chamber itself only the instructor will be with you at all times.

    Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester

    If you’re looking for a more relaxed and educational day out the Science and Industry Museum is a great option.

    The museum is spread out over five nineteenth-century buildings, which may initially put you off. However, the whole site is wheelchair accessible with smooth paths connecting the different areas.  There is also step-free access to all floors of their multi-level buildings.

    Wheelchairs can be borrowed (£20 deposit required) and the staff are very willing to help. All multi-level buildings are served by lifts, and most buildings have disabled toilets.

    The museum always has something on, and regularly provides special exhibits and events during half term weeks. So, it could be a great option for the kids.

    If you’re thinking of going check out https://www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk/visit/facilities-accessibility so you can familiarise yourself with the museum and its facilities.

    The museum also offers free personal assistant/carer tickets for paid events and exhibitions. These are available to book online, by phone on 0333 241 4000 or in person on the day of your visit.

    Disability Cycling with Supportability, Stockport

    Supportability Wheelers project offers weekly cycling opportunities throughout the year for disabled and able-bodied adults, children & young people. The Project has a variety of adapted cycles to enable individuals of all abilities to experience and enjoy cycling.

    Over the past few years the project has supported nearly 400 disabled adults and 125 disabled children at Woodbank Park in Stockport. This is where UK Para-cycling Champion Katie Toft who has Cerebral Palsy started her cycling days.

    Many of the disabled children and adults who use the project have complex needs. The cycles are specially adapted, so everyone can join in and have fun, whilst getting some healthy exercise!

    Carers and parents can also drop in at Wheelers Café during the disability cycling sessions to meet and socialise. 

    Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester

    Another laid back but fun night out is on the cards here at the Royal Exchange Theatre. The building itself is one of the most unusual theatre designs in the country, but this doesn’t stop it being accessible.

    The theatre has wheelchair spaces offering excellent, unimpeded views of the action, plus a lift providing level access to all floors.

    You can check out all the accessible performances at: https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/access

    Chill Factore, Manchester

    Chill Factore is actually home to Disability Snowsport UK. They provide adaptive skiing for individuals with any disability. By using adaptive equipment and specialist instruction and support they are able to cater for even those with very limited mobility.

    The entrance is approx. 10m-20m from the accessible parking spaces. The path leading to the main entrance is approx. 8m wide and made from levelled concrete. There is free on-site car parking available for all guests.

    There are 9 toilet blocks with each one having a disabled access toilet with non-slip flooring.

    You can find all the information you need on the link: https://www.chillfactore.com/plan-visit/accessibility/

    National Football Museum, Manchester

    If you’re planning a day out for some football fans, then the National Football Museum could be the perfect pick.

    The museum offers great accessibility to all disabled visitors. Lifts, ramps, and accessible toilets are common throughout the building.

    There’s seven levels of football heritage and memorabilia to be explored here. You can even listen to the historic commentary on some of the greatest moments in football.

    Visit the accessibility page of the National Football Museum for more information.

    Rest of the UK

    If you’re looking to travel a bit further there are some great days out you can have throughout the rest of the UK. These are our favourite picks.

    Cadbury World

    Perfect for those with a sweet tooth! During your visits you’ll learn about the history of Cadburys, watch the makers at work and, of course, eat chocolate!

    The disabled facilities are suitable for people with all needs. There are low-level desks, ramps, lifts, disabled toilets, tactile surface level indicators, large print guides and an infrared system for hearing aid users.

    You can find out more information on the Cadbury World website.

    Avon Tyrell

    All of the activities at Avon Tyrell have additional equipment to support those that need it.

    The hoists and adapted equipment used on site means that you can zip wire across the lake, climb our climbing wall, take part in tree climbing, shoot an arrow in Archery or canoe/kayak across the water.

    They offer over 40 activities to choose from. They even offer accessible adventures you can get involved with.

    You can find more information on the link below

    https://www.avontyrrell.org.uk/accessibility.html

    Other ideas

    Festivals

    confetti in the air at a concert

    If you’re looking something epic to do over the summer holidays a festival could be your answer. Some of the biggest festivals in the UK provide great access options.

    Checkout the ones below:

    Edinburgh Fringe festival accessibility

    Latitude festival accessibility

    Bluedot festival accessibility

    Greenbelt festival accessibility

    Zoos

    three lions in safari

    Days out at the zoo never disappoint. There are approximately 54 zoos and wildlife parks in the UK.

    The top 3 are worth checking out are:

    Whipsnade Zoo

    London Zoo

    Longleat Safari Park.

    Other wildlife parks that have been positively praised by disabled visitors include the Five Sister Zoo near Livingston, Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

    What are your favourite accessible days out in Manchester and the rest of the UK? Tell us on Twitter or Facebook.

  • The Community Grocer Food Project

    The Community Grocer Food Project

    This post has been written by Sally Devine at Healthy Me Healthy Communities for Disabled Living. Healthy Me Healthy Communities is a Manchester social enterprise for strengthening communities, improving health, well-being and quality of life outcomes by working with people most affected by poverty and social exclusion.

    Our food project, the Community Grocer, is a key part of Healthy Me Healthy Communities. It is a redistribution scheme for surplus food and household items that would otherwise go to waste. They look and feel like a traditional shop with members paying £2.50 for around £12 worth of goods including fresh produce. But they are more than just a shop, they are a valued community hub.

    Each Community Grocer is locally managed and controlled, meeting local needs and a place where people want to go. Along with tackling food poverty, they are a starting point for transforming lives by offering activities, training, volunteer opportunities and access to partner services.

    We have been very successful with our Grocers which continue to thrive

    We are opening our 6th Community Grocers in Hulme on 26th February. Members of our existing Community Grocers who recently took one of our Food Skills courses stated,

    “As a result of the course I find it very easy to go out and do shopping. I feel confident to converse with people and feel more sociable.”

    Rich Browning, CEO of Healthy Me Healthy Communities said:

    “The Community Grocers are a great way of bringing people together and connecting people to activities and services, tackling the long-term causes of poverty and isolation.”

    We have some exciting events coming up we’d love you to come to:

    Gorton One year anniversary party

    Date: Friday 15th February
    Time: 9.30am – 12.00pm
    Venue: 543 Abbey Hey Lane, Gorton, M18 8PF

    Miles Platting Half Term party

    Date: Thursday 21st Feb
    Time: 9.30am – 12.00pm
    Venue: Queensbury Court, Wardle Street, Miles Platting, M40 7DD

    Coverdale and Newbank CG cook and taste sessions

    Date: Thursday 7th and 14th February
    Time:
    Venue: Cornbrook House, 217 Stockport Road, Longsight, M12 4DY

    Hulme Community Grocers Opening Launch

    Date: 26th February
    Time: 11:30am – 3.00pm
    Venue: Aquarius Community Centre, Hulme, M15 6AX

    Fallowfield Community Grocers 1 year anniversary party

    Date: 1st March
    Time: 9:30am – 12.00pm
    Venue: The Place at Platt Lane, Platt Lane, M14 7FZ

    If you would like any further information please contact us on 07305 325 369 or email on info@healthymehealthycommunities.co.uk

    Julie’s over 50’s information:

    • Would you like to make a difference to your community?
    • Want to meet other like – minded people?
    • Would you like to put your life skills and experience to good use?
    • Are you aged 50 years or over?

    Join Healthy Me Healthy Communities for a new project for developing new social ventures in Manchester. The project is for people aged 50-years or over and will include training, mentoring and on-going support. We will be starting at the Aquarius Centre (Hulme) developing a community-café at the centre. Interested? Come along for an informal chat over tea and biscuits on Wednesday 27th February 11.00am – 12.00pm. The training dates are Wednesdays 6th, 20th and 27th March and 3rd April.

    Booking your place

    Please call Julie Thornhill, Development Worker (Ambition For Ageing) on 07305 053660 or email julie@healthymehealthycommunities.co.uk

  • Celebrate Chinese New Year with Yang Sing Cathay

    Celebrate Chinese New Year with Yang Sing Cathay

    Would you like to win a portion of spring rolls to enjoy at Yang Sing Cathay in the Trafford Centre? As Chinese New Year commences on Friday 16th February, we wanted to let you know of something very exciting! Yang Sing Cathay are teaming up with the Trafford Centre for this annual tradition. They are giving away 150 vouchers for a free portion of spring rolls. These are placed in lucky red envelopes and hidden around the shopping centre. You have three days to be in with the chance of winning. Will you be one of the lucky people who get your hands on the delicious treat?

    The meaning of Chinese New Year

    chinese new year dragon

    Managing Director of Yang Sing Cathay, Kui Man Gerry Yeung OBE, shared his thoughts on Chinese New Year with us:

    Chinese New Year, to me, means family. It’s a time for families to share together.

    And we completely agree with Gerry. There’s nothing better than a family run restaurant who want to bring families together to enjoy the celebration. Especially with staff who offer a vibrant atmosphere for you to enjoy Chinese food. There’s no better way to celebrate Chinese New Year than to head over to the restaurant yourself and try out their tasty dishes.

    We’re extremely proud of Gerry’s achievements and are honoured to have him as our President of Disabled Living and High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

    A successful adventure of 20 years

    yang sing cathay dining

    This year Yang Sing Cathay are celebrating an amazing 20 years. Over these years, the restaurant has become an integral part of the Trafford Centre.

    1998 wasn’t the beginning of their success. The Yang Sing group commenced business in 1977 in Manchester’s famous China Town. Their first restaurant on Princess Street celebrated their 40th birthday last year.

    From sizzling steak dishes to vegetarian and vegan courses, there’s something for everyone. Take a look at the full menu. Whether you attend for a casual lunch, relaxed dinner, or group party, the modern oriental atmosphere will leave you wanting to return for more food!

    Fun fact: This year is the ‘Year of the Dog’. If you were born in 1958 or 2018, you are known as the Earth Dog. This means, you are usually recognised for being communicative, serious, and responsible in the workplace. View source here.

    T&Cs for the red envelopes

    red envelope chinese new year

    1. The vouchers are valid on 15th – 17th February 2018 only
    2. If the free portion of spring rolls is to be claimed without any additional purchase, it will be served as a bar snack
    3. A choice of Pork or Vegetable Spring Rolls is available
    4. Portion size is two spring rolls

    More information about Chinese New Year celebrations can be found by visiting the Trafford Centre’s website.

    Follow Yang Sing Cathay on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see more of their success and offers we’re sure you’ll be tempted to enjoy.

  • Manchester People First Are Celebrating 25 Years of Self Advocacy

    Manchester People First Are Celebrating 25 Years of Self Advocacy

    We recently received a ‘Speak Up’ newsletter from Manchester People First (MPF) and felt inspired to write a blog about what they do.

    From 1992 to 2017, MPF have given training and support to disabled adults and professionals, with the aim to campaign for disabled people’s rights. This year, they were awarded with ‘Best Service User Involvement Organisation in Manchester’ by the Spirit of Manchester Awards. What an incredible and well deserved achievement that is. They have recently circulated their 2017 Annual Report, which is available here.

    About MPF

    The team is made up of learning disabled adults and their office is based in Cheetham Hill, Manchester. They’re located close by to our office in the area. They offer staff training and also training and workshops to let members know about the different issues that affect them. They have organised some fantastic social events including. MPF’s Talent Show and several television tours.

    MPF newsletter 2017

    I am a person, not a label.

    MPF have worked with many groups and organisations over the years for different causes. These have included Greater Manchester Police, Healthwatch and Ambition for Ageing. A big project they’ve worked on this year is their ‘Hidden Histories’ exhibition, which was held at Central Library last month in November. Attending conferences and having stands at events helps MPF to promote their message of the importance of support for disabled people.

    Congratulations on winning your Spirit of Manchester award. You’ve accomplished many things this year that the whole team should be very proud of. We’re looking forward to seeing all of the great things that you’ll achieve in 2018.

    Follow MPF on social media

    Twitter
    Facebook
    YouTube

    Or you can visit their website to learn more about them here.

  • Yang Sing Cathay Launch New Christmas Dish

    Yang Sing Cathay Launch New Christmas Dish

    For November’s Story of the Month, we would like to do something that’s a little different. Usually, we dedicate this post to a person to recognise their potential or amazing achievements. However, this month we would like to dedicate this blog to the hardworking spirit of more than one person, which is the whole team at Yang Sing Cathay in the Trafford Centre. Disabled Living are interested in what’s on in Manchester and we thought this would be the perfect opportunity to share Yang Sing Cathay’s new Christmas dish with you.

    This year Yang Sing Cathay has created a special Christmas dish! We spoke to Louise, Marketing Executive at Yang Sing Cathay as she shared her thoughts:

    It was quite challenging to find a balance between a traditional British turkey dinner and a Chinese dish.

    Louise suggested that Yang Sing create a Christmas dish and insisted that they serve turkey breast. She felt that turkey is the essence of Christmas and the blackcurrant sauce goes so well with it. She described it as giving the dish ‘a real Christmassy taste’ as well as a Chinese taste.

    On Monday 27th November, the new dish was available for customers to try

    plum and hoi sin sauce yang sing cathay
    Plum and hoi sin sauce
    blackcurrant sauce yang sing cathay
    Blackcurrant sauce

    They were offered offered them three different sauces, a sweet chilli sauce, which only a few people liked, along with Plum and Hoi Sin sauce and a fruity blackcurrant sauce. Most people enjoyed the Plum and Hoi Sin sauce and blackcurrant sauce the most.

    One customer said:

    The deep fried turkey works really well, the fruity sauce is delicious.

    With the help from Gerry Yeung, the Head Chef and Louise the decision has been made! Turkey breast goujons, served with either Plum and Hoi Sin sauce or Blackcurrant sauce and sesame seeds. The coating is made from self raising flour and potato starch.

    The team are very much looking forward to Christmas. Julie the restaurant manager said:

    It’s nice that we are serving a turkey dish with a Chinese twist.

    gerry yeung yang sing cathay

    Another member of the Yang Sing Cathay team, Kong a senior waiter who has been working for Yang Sing Cathay for more than 10 years said:

    Our Christmas tree has been up since October we are very much in the Christmas spirit.

    Thanks to the Trafford Centre who also put their Christmas decorations up and began to showcase their Christmas lights display on 2nd November.

    The special Christmas turkey goujons will be served in Yang Sing Cathay from Monday 4th December. To find out more about Yang Sing Cathay, please visit their website. Or you can follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

  • Disabled Living are Celebrating! Would You Like to Help Us?

    Disabled Living are Celebrating! Would You Like to Help Us?

    Disabled Living has been awarded £58,400 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) for an exciting project From Donkeys to Innovators that celebrates its rich and unique 120 year history.

    Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project focuses on the charity’s history from its establishment as an organisation teaching children to be kind to animals into its current day role working with disabled people to provide innovative advice and information.

    Disabled Living's Heritage

    From Donkeys to Innovators celebrates the lives of the people involved with Disabled Living sharing their stories and contribution to the charity’s past. It also provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about Manchester’s social history as the charity has links with the city’s economic, cultural and health heritage, involving diverse community organisations and institutions.

    Importantly, the voices of disabled people will be recognised, preserved and celebrated, documenting an important part of disability heritage.

    Having nearly lost all of its archive in a fire in recent years, one key element of the project will be to ensure that the charity’s stories are preserved for the future by digitising all materials. This will also mean that the rich and vibrant stories can be viewed and shared with the general public.

    Filming studio

    Young disabled people will be involved in making their own film reflecting on being disabled in the past compared to their own experiences today. They will use Disabled Living’s archives to gain an understanding of how disabled people lived years ago.

    This is where we would like to hear from you…

    We would like to talk to young people (14-25 years) who have a disability or additional needs who would like to be involved in making a film by interviewing older disabled people about their experiences when they were children. We are looking for six young people who live, ideally in the North West of England who could travel to Manchester for filming.

    This project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

    For further information about any of the above please contact Disabled Living on 0161 214 4590 or email; debra.evans@disabledliving.co.uk

  • Why Gerry Yeung is Our Story of the Month

    Why Gerry Yeung is Our Story of the Month

    For May, we are honoured to focus our Story of the Month to the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Kui Man Gerry Yeung OBE. He has been the president of Disabled Living for the last ten years.

    I have been President of Disabled Living for over 10 years. The charity is in its 120th year and provides impartial information and advice about products, equipment and services for disabled adults and children and the carers and professionals who support them. Their aim is to support people to maintain independence and enhance and improve their lives.

    Alongside this, Gerry has been involved within the business, social, training and magnanimous scenes in our city for a long time. Last month we shared more about Gerry’s background in a previous post.

    Installation Ceremony - collage

    Evidently, Gerry is very passionate about Manchester and his fundraising. On Sunday 28 May, he will be participating in the Great Manchester Run so we thought that we would take a moment to ask Gerry some questions related to the run and his outlook on our vibrant city, Manchester.

    We asked Gerry the questions below.

    What do you love about Manchester?

    Manchester is a special place. It is big enough for a commercially, culturally, and exciting atmosphere. Yet it is small enough for everyone to work together.

    What motivates you the most for the Great Manchester Run?

    Knowing I can raise as much money as possible for the charities and to raise the profile of the High Sheriff Office. And in general, just keeping my body fit and to complete the run within my goal time which is less than an hour.

    What is it about Manchester that inspires you?

    Due to the recent atrocity in Manchester, there is a lot of sadness. However, you can see the spirit of the people in Manchester and that the city is very much alive, with so much pride and togetherness.  There has been a lot of determination and a tremendous amount of empathy for those involved.

    Is there anything else that you would like to add?

    Be generous with your donations! Donations can be submitted through my Virgin Money page.

    Gerry wishes to raise over 20,000 to his chosen charities: Disabled Living, Re-Dish, Wai Yin Society, Greater Manchester High Sheriff’s Police Trust, Chinese Health Information Centre, and Local Chinese Sunday Schools.

    Thank you to Gerry for answering these questions and we wish you the best of luck in completing the Great Manchester Run in less than an hour.

  • Installation of the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester

    Installation of the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester

    This post has been written by Nina Rios, Business Development & Marketing Coordinator at Disabled Living. Last week I was delighted be invited to the ceremony for the Installation of Kui Man Gerry Yeung OBE, DL as The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester. Gerry, has been Disabled Living’s President for the last 10 years and has brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our Management Board.

    Gerry was born in China and came to Manchester as a teenager with his family. He completed his education in the UK and joined the family business, Yang Sing Restaurant at its inception. The success of the restaurant and its great popularity gave him an opportunity to become part of the community of Manchester.

    Gerry Yeung and Debra Evans
    Debra Evans, Chief Executive with Gerry Yeung OBE.

    Gerry has been actively involved in the commercial, educational, charitable and cultural life of the city of Manchester for many years and was President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Gerry’s networks are vast and over the years he has introduced me to a wide range of influential people to assist me to develop services and support the long term strategic vision I have for Disabled Living.

    Gerry very kindly hosts Disabled Living’s Annual General meetings at the Yang Sing Cathay in the Trafford Centre, Manchester. And I am sure those of you who have attended our AGM will agree the food is of the finest quality – a little like Gerry!

    Share your thoughts with us via Twitter @disabledliving.

Disabled Living